/ RUSHCUTTERS BAY APARTMENT 2003

Interior refurbishment of a waterfront apartment.

The initial concern of the apartment fitout was to establish a sense of structure and spatial logic in the design through the use of repetition. The floor plan of the apartment was simplified and significant areas of storage were added to provide a serene clutter free space. Three repetitive elements have been incorporated in the project; tiling strips, ceiling lighting strips and wall lighting strips. These patterns of repetition are used to blur functional elements and ornamental elements: the floor tiling pattern accommodates floor tracks, hidden plumbing lines and electrical channels. The vertical columns and overhead channels contain light fittings.

The spatial structuring of the apartment responds to the clients wish for flexible spaces. The principal strategy involved is the use of sliding panels associated with the laundry core. Depending on their configuration, the panels compartmentalize the space or allow a sense of fluid space. The same dark timber used for the laundry is also used for the kitchen island to bring out their close relationship. Together they read as freestanding elements against the white walls of the L-shaped apartment.